TyreOpt - Fuel consumption reduction by tyre drag optimization

The main goal of this project is to reduce the fuel consumption of heavy trucks by optimizing the tyre drag, which can be represented by a complex function of which only limited knowledge exists. In the project, the influence of different factors influencing the tyre drag, such as, e.g., rolling resistance, will be characterized and the corresponding function will be mathematically modelled. This function will then be optimized using mathematical optimization methods, while simultaneously balancing other tyre-dependent criteria such as handling properties, traction, tyre wear, and ride comfort. The optimization model possesses a simulation-based objective function and categorical variables representing the tyres. Hence, the development of a tractable optimization algorithm is challenging.